HIPS

Overview

HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene), also known as PS (Polystyrene), is an amorphous thermoplastic material, used in lower heat applications. It is categorized as a standard material, and offers ease of processing, high impact strength, and stiffness.

High Impact Polystyrene is impact resistant at the cost of not being naturally clear or transparent. It can be easily painted on and glued. It has economical and easy manufacturability but is generally more expensive than GPPS. HIPS has a matte finish and is a preferred material for thermoforming.

Lower melting temperature for excellent thermoforming properties. Very versatile. High impact protection. Good stiffness and highly rigid material. Commonly used for food packaging and trays for medical devices.

Plastic Recycling Chart

Resin Identification Code Abbreviation PET or PETE HDPE PVC LDPE PP PS OTHER PLA Polymer Name Polyethylene Terephthalate High-Density Polyethylene Polyvinyl Chloride Low-Density Polyethylene Polypropylene Polystyrene All Other Plastics Polylactic Acid Recyclable Commonly Recycled Commonly Recycled Somethims Recycled Somethims Recycled Occasionally Recycled Commonly Recycled (but diffcult to do) Difficult to Recycle Compostable % Recycled Annually 36% 30~35% <1% 6% 3% 34% Low Low Time to Decompose 5~10 years 100 years never 500~1000 years 20~30 years 50 years never 6 months Toxicity Level High Low High Low Low High High - Max Temperature 70°C (158°F) 120°C (248°F) 70°C (158°F) 80°C (176°F) 135°C (275°F) 90°C (194°F) 135°C (275°F) 150°C (302°F) Brittleness Temperature -40°C (-40°F) -100°C (-148°F) -30°C (-22°F) -100°C (-148°F) 0°C (32°F) -20°C (-4°F) -135°C (-211°F) 60°C (140°F)